Praise for Teaching Gifted Children in Today’s Preschool and Primary Classrooms

“A ‘must-have’ for every early childhood and primary teacher’s educational library. Through their collective wisdom and clear understanding of the needs of the whole gifted child, the authors provide a plethora of strategies . . . that any primary teacher could use the next day with his/her gifted and talented students.”—Julie A. Brua, Ed.D., assistant superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction; director of the Gifted and Talented Education Program for Aptakisic-Tripp School District No. 102, Illinois

“I enthusiastically applaud this update of the already impressive original version. Teachers will find this book both a classic and an inspiration toward teaching with creativity and innovation in today’s classroom.”—Dina Brulles, Ph.D., director of gifted education, Paradise Valley Unified School District, Arizona

“This engaging and informative book is filled with current information on meeting the needs of young children with gifts and talents. Practical strategies and examples are given for implementing the ideas . . . a must-have resource for educators and families.”—Mary Ruth Coleman, Ph.D., senior scientist, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

“A wonderful new book that contains a vast amount of helpful, practical information for anyone interested in gifted education. It will serve as a great resource for teachers, administrators, counselors, and parents of young gifted students who want to learn new and innovative ways to spark imagination and learning.”—Patricia Hollingsworth, Ed.D., director, University School at the University of Tulsa

5 Tips for Supporting Young Gifted Children

All gifted children are unique (including young gifted children), and as such, there are many ways to support a young gifted child. But some general strategies apply to most children. Here are five that can be helpful at school or at home.

1. Know your child.

This may seem obvious, but you’ll want to really dive in deep and understand your gifted child’s characteristics. Focus on her strengths—what is she good at doing, what objects draw her attention, what activities does she participate in, what are her favorite books and/or objects, and what is she doing when she is truly happy or content? It is important to recognize what your child is telling you, both in words and actions. When you understand your child’s strengths, it becomes easier to support her interests.

2. Provide a wide variety of opportunities.

Young gifted children have a passion to explore and are often not intimidated by trying new things. Children need to be exposed to a wide range of experiences and opportunities. They may not know they are interested in something if they have never had the opportunity to try it out. Children should get to explore nature (taking hikes and walks, visiting creeks and parks, and so on); visit various places (such as museums, gardens, zoos, and more); try a variety of games (board games and physical games); be exposed to many types of books (nonfiction, fiction, fairy tales, picture books with illustrations and photographs); as well as a plethora of other ideas. If your child is intimidated, move slowly and provide a mix of the familiar and unfamiliar.